Experiences of Disabled Women With Perinatal Care Providers: A Qualitative Study

Background: Despite growing attention to patient-provider relationships in the general population, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the quality of these relationships in the context of maternal disability. Objective: This qualitative study explored the experiences of pregnant and recently pregnant women with disabilities in their interactions with health care providers during the perinatal period. Methods: As part of a larger study examining the effects of psychosocial stress on maternal and neonatal outcomes among women with disabilities, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 40 women with mental health, mobility, and various other disabilities. We analyzed audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded transcripts using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes. Results: Most participants reported biased or otherwise disaffirming interactions with their health care providers during the perinatal period. They described lack of disability competence, disrespectful behavior, and negative attitudes from providers. At the same time, several participants reported respectful, affirming experiences with health care providers who displayed disability competence, supportive behavior, and accepting attitudes. Conclusions: Disabled women described both problematic and positive experiences with health care providers around the time of pregnancy. The findings underscore the need for enhanced health care provider education and training to ensure competent and respectful perinatal care for pregnant women and new mothers with disabilities.